Large Han Dynasty | Painted Terracotta Foot Soldier Figure | Circa 206 BCE–220 CE
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- $3,500.00
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- $3,500.00
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Large Han Dynasty | Painted Terracotta Foot Soldier Figure | Circa 206 BCE–220 CE
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: China
Material: Painted terracotta (earthenware)
Period: Han Dynasty, circa 206 BCE – 220 CE
Description
This large and expressive terracotta figure represents a Han Dynasty foot soldier, originally created as a funerary object placed within tombs to serve and protect the deceased in the afterlife. Such figures, known as mingqi, were an essential component of elite burial practices, symbolizing military strength, order, and the continuation of earthly life beyond death.
The figure stands in a commanding upright posture, with one arm bent forward as if once holding a now-lost weapon or standard. The other arm features a hollowed opening, likely intended for the insertion of a separate attribute, commonly crafted in wood or metal and now lost to time.
The soldier is depicted wearing a red-painted tunic over stylized armor, with carefully rendered vertical striping across the chest suggesting lamellar or plated protection. His facial features—arched brows, defined eyes, and a solemn expression—are executed with confident brushwork, retaining traces of original pigment despite centuries of burial. The headband and hair detailing further reflect Han artistic conventions.
The surface exhibits extensive earthen encrustation, mineral deposits, and natural weathering consistent with long-term burial, contributing to both authenticity and visual character.
Features
- Large-scale Han Dynasty funerary figure (over 20 inches tall)
- Original polychrome pigment remains, including red, black, and white
- Depicts a standing foot soldier in military attire
- Hollow arm apertures for now-missing original attachments
- Hand-applied painted facial features and armor detailing
- Substantial burial encrustation and mineralization
- Mounted on a modern museum-style display base
Cultural Significance
During the Han Dynasty, tombs were furnished with ceramic figures representing attendants, servants, and soldiers to ensure protection and service in the afterlife. Military figures such as this example symbolized power, order, and the safeguarding of the tomb occupant’s spirit.
These figures form part of a broader funerary tradition that evolved from earlier practices such as the Qin Dynasty Terracotta Army, continuing into Han burial customs in a more stylized and accessible form. Larger examples such as this are particularly desirable, reflecting higher-status burials and greater artistic investment.
Condition
Good ancient condition overall. The surface shows heavy burial encrustation, pigment loss, and mineral deposits consistent with age. Structural integrity remains solid. Losses to inserted elements (weapon or attachments) are consistent with excavated examples. Mounted on a later custom display base.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 20.5 in
Width: 5.25 in
Depth: 6.25 in
Age (Approximate)
1,800–2,200 years old
Learn More
Explore the legacy of ancient Chinese funerary sculpture through Smarthistory
Browse our curated Collection of Ancient Chinese Artifacts & Imperial Relics
Descripción
Historical Context & Origin
Region: China
Material: Painted terracotta (earthenware)
Period: Han Dynasty, circa 206 BCE – 220 CE
Description
This large and expressive terracotta figure represents a Han Dynasty foot soldier, originally created as a funerary object placed within tombs to serve and protect the deceased in the afterlife. Such figures, known as mingqi, were an essential component of elite burial practices, symbolizing military strength, order, and the continuation of earthly life beyond death.
The figure stands in a commanding upright posture, with one arm bent forward as if once holding a now-lost weapon or standard. The other arm features a hollowed opening, likely intended for the insertion of a separate attribute, commonly crafted in wood or metal and now lost to time.
The soldier is depicted wearing a red-painted tunic over stylized armor, with carefully rendered vertical striping across the chest suggesting lamellar or plated protection. His facial features—arched brows, defined eyes, and a solemn expression—are executed with confident brushwork, retaining traces of original pigment despite centuries of burial. The headband and hair detailing further reflect Han artistic conventions.
The surface exhibits extensive earthen encrustation, mineral deposits, and natural weathering consistent with long-term burial, contributing to both authenticity and visual character.
Features
- Large-scale Han Dynasty funerary figure (over 20 inches tall)
- Original polychrome pigment remains, including red, black, and white
- Depicts a standing foot soldier in military attire
- Hollow arm apertures for now-missing original attachments
- Hand-applied painted facial features and armor detailing
- Substantial burial encrustation and mineralization
- Mounted on a modern museum-style display base
Cultural Significance
During the Han Dynasty, tombs were furnished with ceramic figures representing attendants, servants, and soldiers to ensure protection and service in the afterlife. Military figures such as this example symbolized power, order, and the safeguarding of the tomb occupant’s spirit.
These figures form part of a broader funerary tradition that evolved from earlier practices such as the Qin Dynasty Terracotta Army, continuing into Han burial customs in a more stylized and accessible form. Larger examples such as this are particularly desirable, reflecting higher-status burials and greater artistic investment.
Condition
Good ancient condition overall. The surface shows heavy burial encrustation, pigment loss, and mineral deposits consistent with age. Structural integrity remains solid. Losses to inserted elements (weapon or attachments) are consistent with excavated examples. Mounted on a later custom display base.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 20.5 in
Width: 5.25 in
Depth: 6.25 in
Age (Approximate)
1,800–2,200 years old
Learn More
Explore the legacy of ancient Chinese funerary sculpture through Smarthistory
Browse our curated Collection of Ancient Chinese Artifacts & Imperial Relics
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